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Around 30 dog rescue vehicles and several Dogs Trust dog ambulances were also at the site, with many of those taking part in the raid wearing special suits and masks as they entered the property.

The owner Jodie Fairbrother, who has also owned a shelter in Chellaston, was present when the raid took place and could be seen being consoled by family members.

Police and RSPCA staff take dogs from the centre during the raid

According to the Grimsby Telegraph she is the same Jo Fairbrother who ran Second Chance Animal Rescue near derby from 2006.

She ran the shelter from premises in Back Lane, Chellaston, up until 2015. The centre, which once homed scores of dogs, cats, ponies and goats, had to move base when the then owners of the site, Clowes Development, applied to build homes there.

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This is when she moved to the premises in Killingholme, where it is reported she became a provider of a large number of adopted dogs, bringing them into the UK from Romania and selling them for around £235 each.

Jo Fairbrother at 4 Paws rescue centre in South Killingholme

According to the 4 Paws website the business has been active in South Killingholme for the past 12 years. However, neighbours say that the centre has only been at the site on Habrough Road for the past two-and-a-half years.

The website said the centre offers “a range of services for your pets, including a low-cost veterinary service in our bespoke Veterinary clinic”.

Speaking as the raids were under way, an RSPCA spokesperson said: “RSPCA officers accompanied police as a warrant was executed at a property in Killingholme in Lincolnshire on Thursday. Dogs Trust and vets were also present to assist.

“A large number of animals were removed from the property and, as an investigation is ongoing, we cannot go into any further detail.

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“If you have concerns that your pet may be at this location, please contact the RSPCA appeal line on 0300 123 8018 and leave your details in relation to 'Operation Cadmium'. A member of our team will contact you in the coming days.”

Horses at the centre during the police and RSPCA raid (Image: Grimsby Telegraph)

Animals that were being kept at the clinic have been placed under the care of the RSPCA and Dogs Trust.

Inspector Tim Harvey of Humberside Police said: “The RSPCA is now leading on the investigation following a warrant executed by Humberside Police at an animal rescue centre in South Killingholme yesterday.

"Two people were voluntarily interviewed but no arrests were made. Any enquiries regarding this are being dealt by the RSPCA on its enquiry line 0300 123 8018 quoting Operation Cadmium."